Sake, or rice wine, has long been associated with Japan and is a fundamental part of Japanese culture. But for the last few decades, whisky has grown "Big in Japan," where it is now associated with chic style and sophisticated tastes. This change is a reflection of the Japanese concept of "kaizen," or continuous development. Japanese whiskies are produced with great care and attention to detail, which results in a unique and sophisticated flavour profile.
Although Scotch whisky served as a major source of inspiration for the Japanese whisky business, it was Americans who eventually opened Japan's eyes to the world of whisky.
Japan was closed off to outsiders and kept insulated from outside influences for more than 200 years. This seclusion came to an end in 1853 when American Commodore Matthew Perry entered Tokyo's port in command of a powerful fleet of cutting-edge warships. He insisted that Japan allow American ships to dock at their ports in order to begin trade with the United States.
Japanese whisky has now established a distinct market for itself, sparking a global frenzy among connoisseurs and collectors. The Japanese whisky business stands out from its international competitors due to its creative blending procedures, distinctive tastes, and exquisite craftsmanship. Keep reading!
The Hakushu 25-Year-Old
In the Yamanashi Prefecture, one of the most picturesque regions of Japan, the Hakushu distillery is situated on the slopes of Mount Kaikomagatake. For connoisseurs who want heavily peated Scottish single malts and collectors who will only accept the finest, this 25-year-old is the perfect option. At the World Whiskies Awards, it was chosen as the greatest single malt in the world for 2018. It costs 5,00,000 INR.
Nikka Coffey Grain Whisky
In the collection of Japanese whiskies, it holds a prominent position. The Coffey Still, named for Aeneas Coffey, is the world's first patented continuous type still and dates back to 1830. No, this whisky does not taste like coffee. This grain whisky has a blend of rich, sweet, and mellow tastes and comes in beautiful packaging that makes it a wonderful gift. It is priced at 9,500 INR.
Yamazaki 12-Year-Old
It's reasonable to argue that this Japanese single malt was the original. One of the reasons Yamazaki is a local symbol is that Suntory established this distillery in 1899, making it the nation's first. Everybody's favourite is this harmoniously balanced whisky with a fruity sweetness. It is expensive but worth it, costing 20,000 INR.
Hibiki Japanese Harmony Master Select
Launched in 1989 to celebrate Suntory's 90th anniversary, Hibiki has grown to become a global phenomenon, garnering praise from both reviewers and whisky enthusiasts. This one, a balanced combination of grain and malt whiskies with subtle notes of Yamazaki Sherry Cask, epitomises the Japanese concept of Kanzen, or complete. It also cost 20,000 INR.
Aksashi Single Malt
The seaside setting of the Akashi distillery in Eigashima gives the whiskies a distinct briney character, which is particularly noticeable in the Akashi Single Malt. This dram is matured for five to eight years in casks that once held barley, sherry, brandy, and ex-Bourbon. With a lengthy, buttery finish, this whisky is dominated by salted caramel and a hint of peat at a price of 8,000 INR.
Super Nikka Whisky
A blended whisky from 1962, which was made as a symbol of Masataka Taketsuru's intense love for his wife Rita, is a tribute to his affection. This unique whisky has a silky texture and a well-balanced taste profile with overtones of sherry and vanilla mixed in with a mellow peatiness. A 700ml bottle costs 16,500 INR.
Kurayoshi Pure Malt Whisky
Kurayoshi Pure Malt, created by Matsui Shuzo, is a combination that unites Scottish and Japanese customs. Made with whiskies that are sourced from Scottish distilleries and skilfully combined with whiskies from Japan, it is further distilled using water filtered by volcanic stones. An appealing option for both beginners and enthusiasts. A 700ml bottle costs 9,690 INR.
Togouchi Premium Blended Whisky
Togouchi Premium Blended Whisky, created by Chugoku Jozo, is a distinctive blend of Canadian grain whisky and Scotch malt whisky. Togouchi, aged in Japanese tunnels near Hiroshima, is aged differently from whiskies that are matured in warehouses. At first, it gives off sweet aromas with touches of caramel, coconut, and exotic fruits. It is more approachable because of its thin, light texture. A 700ml bottle costs 7,890 INR.
Toki
Toki, which translates to "time" in Japanese, is a crisp, friendly whisky that is perfect for sipping "anytime" of the day. It's best to enjoy the whisky in a highball. Toki, a blend of one single grain (Chita) and two single malts (Yamazaki and Hakushu) appeals to both beginners and experts due to its light yet bubbly profile. A 1L bottle costs 4,690 INR.
Tenjaku Pure Malt Whisky
A delicate yet intricate whisky with hints of smoke, vanilla, and green apples in the flavour profile. This is another smooth Japanese whisky that goes well as a foundation for fruity, light cocktails. It is the perfect option for those who want to delve deeper into the nuances of Japanese single malts because of its mild sweetness that is counterbalanced with a touch of smoke. A 700ml bottle costs 4,090 INR.